4. Soil and water conservation 4.

1 Soil moisture conservation techniques

Introduction
Effective soil and water management practices can improve soil fertility
and increase yields in a sustainable way. The purpose of this session is to
highlight some of the techniques that conserve soil and water, preserve soil
moisture and/or drain water sustainably to avoid soil erosion, land sliding
and depletion of soil nutrients.
Time required: 8 hours
4.1.1 Terraces
Terracing is the process of reducing the length and/or steepness of a slope
in a planted zone using soil embankments and channels that are constructed
across the slope. The change in slope profile reduces runoff speed - especially
on erosion-prone highlands - thus reducing soil erosion. It also allows some
water to sip into the soil (infiltration), improving soil for more vegetation cover.
EXERCISE
How would you reduce the speed at which the water across your
agricultural land?

The SALM practices in soil and water conservation fall into four broad
groups. Some of these techniques are described in this chapter. The A-frame
Terraces are constructed with the aid of an A-frame, consisting of:
SOIL • Terraces • Retention ditches
• Contour bunds • Pitting 2 bars that should be 200 cm long, made of wood or metal.
MOISTURE
• Broad beds and • Trenches 1 bar, 180 cm long.
CONSERVATION
furrows • Tied ridges 1 bar, 60 cm long.
TECHNIQUES
• Semi-circular bunds • Grass strips A balancing water tool to show the balancing mark, for example a small
• Trash lines • Irrigation transparent plastic tube of water.
• Diversion ditches and Nails to assemble the A-frame.
cut-off drains

• Roof catchment
RAIN WATER
• Ground surfaces and
HARVESTING
rocks
TECHNIQUES
• Irregular surfaces
Place water tool here

WATER • Tanks

cm
60 cm

0
• Birkas

20
STORAGE
• Pans
TECHNIQUES
• Ponds
(impermeable
• Dams
surfaces) • Wells and boreholes
180 cm

• Ecological sanitation
SUSTAINABLE
• Kitchen water Illustration: A-Frame
SANITATION
SYSTEMS
Instructions: How to make a terrace and contour bunds using the A-frame
1. For this you need your A-frame and a large number of small poles to
mark your contour bund.
2. Explore the shape of the terrain in your field and check for steep
slopes and observe any signs of erosion. The first terrace should be
made at the highest point of the slope

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3. Set out the first contour line (line joining points at the same altitude) Surface bench

25 m from the top of your field. Place the first pole at that spot. Place
the A-frame horizontally to your field and next to the first pole (as Ridge

indicated in the illustration).

25 cm

1. Set out the first contour line (line
joining points at the same altitude)
25 m from the top of your field.
Place the first pole at that spot.
2. Place the A-frame horizontally to
your field and next to the first
pole.
60 cm
3. Hold the A-frame in its position, and
without moving the first leg of the
A-frame, swing the second leg next
to the pole 180° until the frame is
perfectly levelled. Place the second
pole.

A-Frame A-Frame Furrow / retention ditch

Second pole
First pole First pole Illustration: How to make a contour bund
m

m
25

25

25
180°
Once established, bunds need some maintenance in the first two years.
It is advisable to strengthen the bunds by placing stones and/or grow grass
along and/or to the top of the ridges.

For a video demonstration on terraces and contour bunds, visit:

http://www.accessagriculture.org/node/511/en

Illustration: How to use the A-frame 4.1.1.1 Types of terraces

4. Hold the A-frame in its position, and without moving the first leg of the a. Bench terraces
A-frame, swing the second leg next to the pole 180° until the frame is Bench terraces are a conservation structure where a slope is directly or
perfectly levelled. Place the second pole. slowly converted into a series of level steps (looking like staircase on slope)
5. Repeat this process, placing a pole each time you use the A-frame, and ledges. The flat area between the terraces (the horizontal step) is used
until the end of the field. for growing crops such as grass and legumes (which capture water and
6. The poles now mark your contour line. Smoothen the sharp angles to nutrient runoff), and for animal feed.
make it easier for ploughing. Close the terrace by growing grass on the last flat area at the bottom of
7. Plough the land following the poles along the contour line. If it is clay soil the terrace.
it is enough to do the ploughing two times on each side of the contour
line. If it is sandy soil, plough at least three times. (You can also dig a
retention ditch along the contour line.)
8. Throw the soil of the outer lines on top of the contour line. Ridge
Barriers such as grasses
(vetiver grass, napier grass) • The terrace is built on a
9. The contours should be 60 cm wide and 25 cm deep. Surface bench and trees can be planted
on/or near the ridges.
slope of up to 45˚.
• The size of the surface
10. If it is clay soil, the contour lines do to not need to be compacted. If it bench depends on the
steepness of the slope.
is sandy soil, the contour lines needs to be compacted. • At the end of the trench,
close with soil.
11. On steeper slopes, terraces need to be built closer together. On • Ridges are at the end of
each terrace.
gentler slopes, establish your terraces every 15 m.
12. Sow your crops on the benches, parallel to the contour bunds. On the
ridges, you can sow grass and trees.
13. Depending on your farm’s agro-ecological zones, (see chapter 2), the Illustration: How to build bench terraces
climate, seasons and rains, either leave the furrows open at each end
of the field so that rainwater can drain out of the field, or close the b. Fanya juu
furrows to create a retention ditch where the water infiltrates the field.
Fanya juu means throw the soil upwards. To make this kind of terrace dig a
ditch and throw the soil uphill, to form a ridge. The ditch traps the water and
makes it infiltrate the land slowly. The ridge prevents the soil from moving
downhill. Fanja juu terraces are often used in the highlands where water

30 31
speed is high.
Trench
Ensure there is a ridge at the bottom of the terrace, to close off the fanya 1m Bench
Final ridge on the
0.75 m
juu terrace. end of farm
0.5 m

Instructions: How to make fanja juu terraces

1.5 m
1m
1. Dig a trench and throw the soil upwards to form a ridge of 40 cm - 50 cm
0.5 m
0.75 m

in height.
2. The trenches could be 10 m - 20 m apart depending on the steepness
of the field.
3. Grasses or trees are often grown on the ridges to stabilise the bank,
Make the terraces by throwing the soil downhill
e.g. napier grass (in higher rainfall conditions). Bananas can be planted
in the trenches. Illustration: How to build fanja chini terraces

Note: Regular maintenance is necessary. d. Water terraces

Water terraces are built in flood-prone areas by communities to help the
Ridge
farmers to cope with flowing water, to deal with water masses, water speed
40 - 50 cm
Close with ridge and/or change the water direction. Water terraces are similar to bench
Trench terraces except that at the end of the trench, there is no final ridge stopping
40 - 50 cm
the flow of water. Instead, furrows are constructed under the benches to
catch runoff water.
10 - 20 m
Bench

Water movement

Make the terraces by throwing the soil upwards

Illustration: How to build fanja juu terraces

For a video demonstration on fanya juu, visit:

http://www.accessagriculture.org/node/893/en

c. Fanya chini
Fanja chini means throw the soil downhill. To make this kind of terrace, dig
a ditch and throw the soil downhill to establish a ridge. Grow tree or fodder
on the ridges. Close off the terrace with a final ridge. Fanja chini terraces
are often used in the lowlands with moderate slopes.
Illustration: How to build water terraces
e. Stone terrace
In stone terraces, stones are used to create strong embankments on steep
slopes. The stone terraces have the potential to slow down runoff, increase
water infiltration, and form the basis for improved production in semi-arid
areas. By using the contours of low slopes, water harvesting is improved
and crops can be grown in low rainfall years.

Instructions: How to make stone terraces

1. You need a mix of small and large stones (25 cm – 30 cm in height)
depending on the size of your land and terrace.
2. Dig trenches, 10-15 cm deep. Trenches should be 15-30 m apart.
3. Place the selected large stones in the trench.

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 4. Place, on the side not blocking the water, smaller stones to support
the larger stones. EXERCISE
5. Place on top and in between the smaller stones sediments or top soil
Study your land and visualise where the contour lines will run. This
that can be distributed along the soil together with the rain water.
can be done by one person directing another person in walking to
6. Plant grass or trees along the stones to support the stone terrace.
the other side of the area to be contoured such that he/she stays
at the same height as the first person.
Large stone
Grass or trees to Water
Small support the terrace movement
stones
4.1.3 Broad beds and furrows
25 - 30 cm
10 - 15 cm Furrows are narrow ditches dug in the field between crops. Runoff water is
10 - 30 m
diverted into furrows. The furrows are blocked in the lower end. When one
furrow is full the water backs up into the head furrow and flows into next
Trench furrow. Between the furrows are broad beds where crops are grown.
Furrows work in the same way as infiltration ditches.
Illustration: How to build stone terraces

For a video demonstration on stone lines visit: Broad bed

Broad bed Original soil
surface
http://www.accessagriculture.org/node/891/en

50 cm
4.1.2 Contour bunds/contour farming 30 cm 100 cm

Contour farming involves ploughing, planting and weeding along the con-
tour, i.e, across the slope rather than up and down. Contour lines are lines
that run across a slope such that the line stays at the same height and does
Sunken furrow
not run uphill or downhill. As contour lines travel across a hillside, they will
be close together on the steeper parts of the hill and further apart on the Illustration: How to make broad beds and furrows
gentle parts of the slope.
4.1.4 Semi-circular bunds
Did you Semi-circular bunds are made by digging holes on the tips of the contours,
Experiments show that contour farming alone can reduce soil erosion
know? in the form of half-circles. Semi-circular bunds are used to harvest water,
by as much as 50% on moderate slopes. However, for slopes steeper
conserve soil and water, and improve soil fertility (when manure or compost
than 10%, other measures should be combined with contour farming
is added).
to enhance its effectiveness.
The dimension of the holes and spacing of the contours are determined
by the type of crop or the farming system. The bunds are staggered so that
the water which spills round the ends of the upper hill is caught down the
Contour bunds are permanent ridges of soil that are built by excavating slope. The excavated planting pits are filled with a mixture of organic manure
a channel on a slope along a contour line (line joining points on same and topsoil to provide the required fertility and help retain moisture.
altitude). These soil conservation structures resemble “fanya chini” terraces
(see 4.1.1.1, c). Contour bunds are popular in the highland and in semi-arid Instructions
areas and are mostly used to harvest water, enhance the retention of runoff
1. Semi-circular bunds are constructed on the gentle slopes of 1 – 2 %
water, and prevent soil erosion and flooding. Contour bunds are made using
in areas with 500 mm – 700 mm rainfall.
an A-frame (see 4.1.1).
2. Mark the points along the contours and get smooth curved lines
across the slope 8 m – 50 m apart depending on slope starting at the
Note: If contour lines are incorrectly established, then they can actually
top of the field.
increase the risk of erosion.
3. Mark points on lines where water affects the agricultural field and
demarcate these areas to be constructed with the bunds.

34 35
4. To develop a bund, mark 6 m - 20 m radius and make a semi-circular
bund down the slope and form a bund to bund measures 3 m - 10 m Trash line made of crop residue

along the lines while from the bund line to another line ranges
3 m - 30 m.
5. At the inner part of the semi-circular demarcation, dig a trench of
Crops
20 cm – 30 cm throwing soil downward and create a semi-circular
ridge/embankment. 1 m wide

6. In the trench or mid/ends of the bund fill with loose stones and plant
some trees or shrubs on the ridges and inside bunds plant fodder
crops and trees etc. to maintain during rainstorms.
7. 1.5 m wide and 0.5 m deep diversion ditch can be constructed within
the bunds field to drain excess water during rainstorms.

Grass Illustration: How to make trash lines

4.1.6 Diversion ditches and cut-off drains

Semi circular bunds A diversion ditch is a graded channel excavated to intercept surface water
10 m
5m running down a slope and divert it to a safe outlet, waterway or farm. The
structures can be in the form of a trench, a narrow base channel or a hillside
ditch.
Cut-off drains are channels built to collect runoff from the land above
and to divert the water safely to a waterway or river, thus protecting the land
below from excessive erosion. The ditches can be made of earth, loose rock
or other material depending on the available resources and needs.

llustration: How to make semi-circular bunds Ditch Water

Side
For a video demonstration on semi-circular bunds, visit:
http://www.accessagriculture.org/node/903/en

4.1.5 Trash lines Cut-off drain

Trash lines are created across the slope along the contour using previous
seasons’ crop residues (millet, maize and sorghum stalks), grasses, litter and Road surface

other dead vegetative organic materials. Trash lines control surface runoff, soil
erosion and enhance infiltration. Trash lines can be 1 m wide.

Illustration: How to make cut-off drains

36 37

Ditch
Side slope
Embankment
Original ground
Illustration: How to make a diversion ditch
4.1.7 Retention ditches
a. Contour drainage ditches
Contour drainage ditches drain excess water out of the field, and if closed
at the end, retains water for use or infiltration into the downslope fields.
These can stop downslope water movement as the water falls into the
ditch. These structures are some of the most useful for small-holder hillside
farming since these require less work than terraces, are simple to build, and
can be used to either divert or to retain water. They divert excess water to
protected drainage ways, reduce soil erosion and leaching of nutrients. The
uppermost ditch, called storm water drain, is very important if a great deal of
water enters from above the field.
Illustration: Contour drainage ditch
b. Contour infiltration ditches
Contour infiltration ditches are short ditches or pits dug along the contour
and upslope from a crop field. Water is diverted from the roadside into the
ditch, which is blocked at the other end. The water trapped in the ditch
seeps into the soil gradually.
38
Blocked on one end
1.5 m 0.7 m
Illustration: Contour infiltration ditch
4.1.8 Pitting
Pitting is the digging of holes of various sizes to grow crops such as banana,
coffee, tea, and grains (maize, millet and beans). The pit acts as a water
harvester and a conserver of both moisture and fertility. Manure is added to
increase fertility in the pit for a long time. You can plant crops repeatedly in
the same place. Often, a series of planting pits are dug in the same field.
a. Zai pits
Zai pits are shallow, wide pits in which cereal crops such as maize are
planted. Topsoil from the excavation or compost is mixed with manure and
put back in the pit where a few cereal seeds are then planted. The zai pit is
suitable in areas with sandy soils and often used in semi-arid areas. It has
been modified in some areas to fit the climate circumstances. For example,
Katumani, Machakos has the katumani pit, a smaller version of the zai pit.
In Njombe, Tanzania, with annual rainfall of about 1,000 mm, the pits are
bigger and deeper (at least 0.6 m deep). For the bigger pits, 15 – 20 seeds
are planted in each pit, and about 20 litres of manure added to each pit. The
result is double the yield compared to conventional tilled land.
Plant 4 - 8 seeds of for Add manure in the pit after planting
example maize
0.9 m
0.9 m
0.3 m
0.6 m
Illustration: How to make zai pit
39
For a video demonstration on zai planting pits, visit:
Dig the pits On planting
http://www.accessagriculture.org/node/901/en Inside the pit place ashes (to
Pit measurement: expel termites), farmyard
• 22 cm in diameter manure and crop residues
• 30 cm deep then cover with soil before
b. Tumbukiza pits planting one or two seeds
of either maize, millet or
This is a pitting system that involves digging huge pits, and filling the pits Contour bund sorghum
created from
with trash and vegetative material, including farmyard manure and topsoil. excavated soil

Tumbukiza means “throw all in”.

Tumbukiza pits have been modified for fodder production and improved
soil fertility. A fodder crop, preferably napier grass, is usually grown in the 60

cm
cm

90
pit. At the end of one cutting cycle (30 days), the fodder has grown enough
to allow the next round of cutting. Excavating the pits is labour - intensive.

Three months before planting season dig the One month to onset of rainfall
tumbukiza pits
About 2 - 3 wheelbarrows or
Pit measurement:
4 debes (20 kgs) of manure
Illustration: How to make chololo and ngolo pits
• 60 cm deep
or compost mixed with 1
• 60 cm in diameter
wheelbarrow of top soil is
• 90 cm space between pits
added to fill the holes and
crops are planted. e. Five by nine pits
Five by nine pits are square-shaped pits, larger than zai pits that are used
to plant maize crops. The pits measure 60 cm square and are 60 cm deep.
The name “five by nine” is based on the five or nine maize seeds planted at
the pit diagonals (five for dry areas, and nine for wet areas). This type of pit
can hold more manure than a zai pit. Hence, it is capable of achieving higher
yields that have a long-lasting effect. The pit can be re-used for a period of
up to two years.

Illustration: How to make tumbukiza pits

Dig the pits On planting

c. Chololo pits Pit measurement:

• 60 cm in diameter
• 60 cm deep
Chololo pits are dug, planted and filled partly with ashes, manure and crop Plant 5 - 9 maize
residues to hold the water and add nourishment to the plant. Crops grown seeds in each pit,
sown diagonally
in chololo pits can survive periods of severe rainfall deficits, and yields can
be tripled. The pits are easy to make and not very labour-intensive.
d. Ngolo pits
Ngolo pits are characterised by a combination of soil conservation
techniques of pits and ridges on slopes about 35 % - 60 % steepness. The
pits are laid out on sloping land forming a grid to cover the entire surface. A
major feature of the ngolo system is that the fields contain a large number of
pits. Soil taken from the pits is used to form ridges around the pits. Crops
are grown on the ridges, and the weeds and crop residues are thrown into
Illustration: Five by nine pits
the pits. The pits also conserve water. The pits combine a two-crop-rotation
system (maize and beans for example), repeated in a 2-year cycle. In the
event of a decrease in the maize yield, the field is fallowed for several years
until it is fully covered with shrubs or tall grasses, and then used to grow
crops. The pits are regularly moved and new ridges built where the organic
matter has accumulated. The yield from ngolo pits has been shown to be
superior to that of a crop obtained through terracing methods. Ngolo pits
are also known as ingolu or matengo pits.

40 41
4.1.9 Trenches
Trenches are short ditches or pits dug across the slope to trap water.
Trenches help recharge underground water and maintain a supply of water
for wells and springs, protect the soil down slope from erosion and enable
trees to grow quickly in dry lands. Embankments of trenches are planted
with grasses, legumes and trees stabilising soils and enhancing vegetation
grows leading to both biomass and soil carbon.
4.1.11 Grass strips
Grass strips are 1 m-wide strips of grass planted on terraces along contours to
reduce the amount of water flowing down the slope and conserve soil. This
technique can be practiced in wet and moist areas. Grass strips are planted
with fodder grass such as Napier or are left with natural grass, thereby they
provide fodder for livestock (cut and carry.)

Trench spacing interval 1 metre wide grass

60 cm depends on % of the slope: strips for fodder
• 0 - 4 %: 10 - 20 m
10 - 12 m • 4 - 8 %: 8 m
• 8 - 15 %: 6 m
• 15 - 35 %: 4 m

Crops

Grass

Water 30 cm
Crops

Measurement of a trench:
60 cm wide x 30 cm deep Trench
Illustration: How to make grass strips
Illustration: How to make a trench

4.1.10 Tied ridges
Tied ridges are a series of cross-ridges that interrupt or block the furrows
in areas with dry soils and prevent water from flowing along the furrows.
This allows the water trapped between the ridges to seep into the soil. Tied
ridges conserve soil moisture in drought-prone areas increasing crop yields,
prevent water erosion, and its simple to use and maintain with farmers.
Ties
Ridge
Crops
4.1.12 Irrigation
Irrigation is the use of collected or harvested water for agricultural purposes.
The practice improves soil moisture and mitigates against drought, allowing
crops to use the available water efficiently.
Drip or trickle irrigation
In drip irrigation, water is led to a farm through a pipe system. A tube is
installed in the farm, next to the plants. Holes are then made in the tube at
regular intervals, and an emitter attached to the tube is used to supply water
slowly, drop by drop, to the plants. This system is suited to small farms.
There are different types of drip irrigation based on what materials you as a
farmer have available. Examples are bottle irrigation, bamboo tube irrigation
and bucket irrigation.

1.5 - 2.0 m 30 - 60 cm

Illustration: How to make tied ridges

42 43
 EXERCISE
Plant Plastic bottle with 1. Pull out the drawing of your farm. What soil conservation method
bottom cut off
would you adopt in your farm?
2. List five reasons why this method is good/beneficial for you?
Cotton threads fitted
in the pin pricked hole
to release water slowly

River bank protection: The sides of the river are called river Think
banks. The banks have natural vegetation called riverine which about
are supposed to be protected. Farmers sometimes destroy
the banks of the river by growing crops. Also naturally heavy
Illustration: Bottle irrigation rainfall, river flooding and landslide erode river banks. When
the banks are destroyed the river can flood causing river bank
erosion, loss of soil, crops and livestock, as well as depositing
sand, silt and boulders on cropland. River banks can be
protected using live barriers (plants) and gabion wires. The
Plant
Water hole river sides twice the river include banks are supposed to be
protected and not be cultivated by farmers for riverine
vegetation and biodiversity. Farmers can rehabilitate the
Water damaged river banks by not cultivating, allowing natural
Bamboo tube
Stone cover regeneration, planting trees, napier, sugarcane, and/or banana.

4.2 Rainwater harvesting techniques

Illustration: Bamboo irrigation Rainwater harvesting is the slowing down, collection and concentration of
runoff water for productive purposes such as growing crops, fodder,
pasture or trees, and to supply livestock or/and for domestic water supply,
Bucket especially in arid and semi-arid regions. The purpose is to mitigate the
Small thin tubes (Plastic tubes) effects of temporal rain shortages, some of which can be attributed to
climate change.

There are three (3) major rainwater harvesting techniques:

Crop
Pipes with pricker holes 1. Roof catchment.
2. Ground surfaces and rocks.
3. Irregular surfaces (road, railways, footpaths, hillsides).

4.2.1 Roof catchment

A roof catchment is a system with gutters in the roof that drain water into a
Illustration: Bucket irrigation
suitable storage system such as a tank or a water pan. It is especially used
in roofs made of galvanised iron or clay tiles.

4.2.2 Ground surfaces and rocks

The runoff water that collects on the ground and around rocks is channeled
to farms or stored in ponds, tanks and dams for future use. Gutters can be
used to channel the water.

44 45
4.2.3 Irregular surfaces (roads, railways, footpaths 4.3.3 Excavated pans and ponds
and hillsides) Ponds are reservoirs with a water volume less than 5,000 m3. Excavated
Runoff water from areas such as roads, homesteads and railways lines is pans are shallow depressions (1 m to 3 m deep) constructed to collect and
caught and channeled into fields or stored in systems such as tanks, dams hold runoff water from various surfaces including from hillsides, roads, rocky
and ponds for future use. Gutters can be used to channel the water. areas and open rangelands. When properly designed and with good
sedimentation basins, the water collected can be used for livestock watering
or to supplement the irrigation of crops.
Crop field

4.3.4 Water dams

Head furrow
Field furrows 30 cm wide in depth

Road
a. Charco dams
Charco dams are small excavated pits or ponds, about 3 m deep, constructed
at well-selected sites on a relatively flat topography for livestock watering.1
For high efficiency in water collection, the pond is situated at the lowest
point of the topography. The right site may be selected using contour maps
of the area or by observing where water collects naturally.
Water

Illustration: Road catchments b. Small earthen dams

EXERCISE
1. Pull out the drawing of your farm. Which water conservation
method would you adopt in your farm?
2. List five reasons why this method is good/beneficial for you?
4.3 Water storage approaches
Water storage approaches are practical ways of storing and conserving
water, especially during dry season. The water is mainly used for household
consumption, but can also be used for agricultural purposes, e.g. water
harvesting tanks can provide water for drip irrigation. There are different
approaches, such as tanks, ponds and dams.
4.3.1 Tanks
Tanks can be placed above the ground (surface tanks) or underground
(sub-surface tanks) and used to harvest rainwater from large rock
catchments and roofs (clay tiles and galvanised iron roofs). The water can
be used at home, schools and hospitals. Unless ground gradient permits
gravity outlets, pumps are required to lift the water to the surface whenever
there is need.
4.3.2 Birkas
Birkas are rectangular underground cisterns lined with concrete on
impermeable clay tiles.
When larger quantities of water are desired, earthen dams are preferred.
An earthen dam is constructed either on-stream or off-stream, where there
is a source of large quantities of channel flow. The dam wall is 2 - 5 m high
and has a clay core and stone aprons and spillways to discharge excess
runoff. Volume of water ranges from hundreds to tens of thousands of cubic
meters. Due to the high costs of construction, earthen dams are usually
constructed through cooperatives and farmers’ organisations. Earth dams
can provide adequate water for irrigation projects as well as for livestock
watering. Sediment traps and delivery wells may help to improve water
quality but, as with water from earthen dams, it is usually not suitable for
drinking without being subject to treatment.
c. Sand and subsurface dams
Many seasonal rivers in the semi-arid areas of East Africa have sand, hence
the term sand river. Dry for most part of the year these rivers are subject to
flooding during the rainy season.
A sand dam is a wall constructed across the stream to restrict surface
flow. The height of the dam wall is increased by 0.3 m after floods have
deposited sand to the level of the spillway. Sand dams are similar to
subsurface dams but the top of the dam wall exceeds the level of the
riverbed.
A subsurface dam is where the wall embankment, sometimes made of
compacted clay, is below the ground. Sometimes the structure is integrated
with a drift for river crossing purposes, reducing costs.
Subsurface and sand dams should be built slowly in stages because
if built too high, silt settles in the dam instead of sand. It should go down
to the impervious layer below the sand. The water in the sand dam can be
reserved for a long time due to low evaporative losses.
The most convenient way to harvest water in a sand river is by either

46 47
sand or subsurface dams. Local materials for construction are usually
available and the only extra cost is that of cement and labour.
Sand river storage is a socially acceptable water source, and because Fly screen

the water is stored under the sand it is protected from significant evaporation
losses and is also less liable to be contaminated. Vent pipe

4.3.5 Wells, boreholes Wash water

Urine hole

In regions without notable surface water resources it is necessary to obtain Washing trough
Faeces hole
water from underground sources (ground water near the surface or deep
geological layers). A borehole-well is a borehole connected to a well Ash bucket

(generally modern); the borehole feeds the well, which is used as a water
Cover
reservoir. Evaporative plant bed

Note: Farmers or organisations abstracting water from a river, using dams Compost chamber

or bore holes must carry out feasibility, design, Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA) and annual Environmental Audits (EA), consult communities
and obtain water permits or licenses. Dams and related infrastructure may
Illustration: Ecosan toilet
impact the local environment, have impact on land use, and cause
re-settlement of people or start community conflicts.
4.4.2 Kitchen water
4.4 Sustainable sanitation systems Water that has been used in the kitchen or from showers can be treated
and used for irrigating gardens. Leave the water in the basin in the sun to
4.4.1 Ecological sanitation kill germs. Let it cool before applying it to your kitchen garden or trees,
Farmers can use Ecological Sanitation (EcoSan) toilets to collect human otherwise it will destroy the plants.
waste and urine to use as manure for improving crop productivity. The
EcoSan toilets are permanent, you do not need to dig pit latrines. In this
system, human waste does not mix with urine.
Urine is collected and diluted with water to use as fertilizers for
vegetables, grass, crops or trees (1 part urine, 3 parts water.)
Human waste is decomposed and mixed with ash and top soil, then
used as manure for crops. The ash helps to increase decomposition,
remove germs and reduces the smell.

How to use manure:

1. Construct and use the EcoSan toilet.
2. Add 1 handful of ash in the hole for human waste every day to reduce
smell and kill germs.
3. Collect urine when needed and dilute with water to use as fertilizer.
4. Remove the human waste and mix with top soil to provide essential
bacteria that enables decomposition and turns the human waste into
soil. (Mix 1 part human waste with 1 part top soil.)
5. Let it decompose for 3 weeks under a tree to provide shade.
6. When ready, turn the manure to make a fine mix. Add the manure to
the soil in your field.

Note: Do not apply the EcoSan manure directly on crops or plants, only mix
into soil. This is an act of precaution, not to spread germs.

48 49
5. Agronomic practices AGRONOMIC EXAMPLES BENEFITS
PRACTICE
Contour strip Grass strips. Reducing soil loss.
cropping

Cover crops and Lab lab beans. Conserving soil,

Introduction green manure nitrogen-fixation.
By the end of this session you will know how to choose the crops best Place Napier grass, trees
Fodder banks Manure availability (both the
suited for your farm, the most suitable ways to plant different crops in your such as calliandra, or animals that feed on the
farm to increase produce, as well as how to adapt to the negative impacts sesbania sesban as fodder fodder, plus the fodder are
banks. sources of manure), livestock
of climate change.
diet improved.

Time required: 4 hours Integrated Pest Man- Combination of biological, The expected reduction in
agement physical and chemical pest number of pests reduces the
and disease control. need for pesticides.
5.1 What are agronomic practices?
Cover crops and green manure – See chapter 3
Agronomic practices are designed to manage crops on croplands to Fodder banks – See chapter 6
increase yields, productivity, adapt to climate change and increase the Alley cropping – See chapter 6
resilience of the crop land. Some of the recommended practices are listed Integrated Pest Management – See chapter 11
below.
Table: Agronomic practices

5.2 Improved crop varieties

AGRONOMIC EXAMPLES BENEFITS
PRACTICE Improved crop varieties are crops that have been researched on, bred
and tested to have special qualities e.g. of fast-maturing, dry spell tolerant,
Improved crop Hybrid maize, grafted The crops are fast maturing, high-yielding, high quality, and pest and disease tolerant. Some particular
varieties mangoes, indigenous high yielding, and are generally crops can also withstand the effects of climate change and increase organic
vegetable, mosaic resistance more tolerant to pests and
cassava, ground nuts, tissue diseases.
carbon or residues that can be managed to store carbon in the soil for a
culture banana long period of time.

Crop rotation Maize to groundnuts to root Controlling the build-up of Think

crops. pests, weeds and diseases,
and ensuring that root systems Examples of crops include hybrid maize, millet, sorghum, pulses about
explore the soil to different and legumes (beans), rice, grafted mangoes, indigenous vegetables,
depths. Recycling nutrients. mosaic-resistant cassava, groundnut and tissue culture bananas.

Intercropping Mix maize-beans, maize- Nitrogen-fixation,

groundnuts, maize-potatoes
Alley cropping Trees such as Sesbania
sesban or Calliandra in
hedges in maize fields.
Relay cropping When the main crop, e.g.
maize, is a few weeks from
the harvesting stage,
introduce a cover crop e.g.
bean or green gram to
succeed the maize field. Crop diversification
Table: Agronomic practices
intensification, and increased
yields of two crops.
Stabilising soils.
Ensuring continuous use
of land, and availability of
organic fertilizers.
High-yielding crops also provide more biomass or residues can be
returned back to the soil. However, certain improved crop varieties need to
be used with caution; not all are suitable for all climates and soils.
Note: Please consult with an agricultural extension officer before purchasing
and planting the seeds.
The adaptation measures of planting improved crop varieties include:
Timely planting
Staggered plantation or succession
Crop rotation

50 51
 5.3 Crop rotation INTERCROPPING (A) INTERCROPPING (B)

Crop rotation is the repetitive planting of a sequence of crops in the same Legumes, e.g. beans Maize
field following a defined order in a year or years of cropping. The practice Legumes, e.g. beans

is necessary in order to avoid the built-up of pests, weeds or diseases, and Maize
chemicals, and to ensure that root systems explore the soil to different depths.
Think
about
Suitable crops for use in rotations include legumes (nitrogen-fixing),
Illustration: Intercropping
cereals (high feeders), root crops (cover crops) and grasses (which
also help to maintain the fertility).
5.5 Relay cropping
Relay cropping is the planting of temporary crops within the main crop
The main practices involve planting cereals (high feeders) first, followed before the main crop is harvested. Relay cropping ensures the land is
by legumes (nitrogen-fixing) and finally plant root crops (cover crops). Examples used continuously. It also reduces the cost of subsequent cultivation while
of crops used in a crop rotation system include planting maize first, then ensuring the availability of organic matter for the new crop, stabilises
beans (intercrops and pure stands), and finally cassava or potatoes. nitrogen, and controls weeds and diseases.

Beans, Peas,
Cassava
Groundnuts

Outgoing crop
Legume Root

Incoming crop
Grain Fruit and
leaf

Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Peppers,

Maize, Rice Eggplant, Squash, Melons, Cabbage,
Lettuce, Greens, Herbs, Spinach.
Illustration: Relay Cropping

Illustration: Crop rotation

5.4 Intercropping
Intercropping is the planting of two or more crops in the same field at the
same time such as maize and beans, maize and groundnuts or maize and
potatoes. Intercropping, also known as interplanting, provides additional
income, food and shade, fixes nitrogen, and controls weeds and soil
erosion. It also provides a lot of biomass to form residues to be returned as
organic inputs to the soil in form of mulch and compost.
Think
about
The major plants used in intercropping include beans, soya beans,
cowpeas, pigeon peas, onions and other vegetables.
Care should be taken when intercropping as some plants host pests and
can transmit diseases to the main crop. For example yam, pumpkin,
watermelon and cucumber should not be intercropped with banana as these
serve as alternate hosts for the infectious chlorosis virus that affects banana.
5.6 Contour strip cropping
Contour strip-cropping is the planting alternative strips (15 - 45 m wide)
of grasses or grain with other crops along a contour on gentle slopes to
conserve moisture and reduce erosion.
EXERCISE
1. Go back to your drawing and answer the following questions:
a. Verify which of the above-mentioned practices do you have
on your land? If you are missing some, are there any
practices you wish to implement? Which type of crops do you
normally plant in the rotational method?
b. Give five reasons why you carry out rotational cropping
system?
c. Do you have different crops and trees on your land for
feeding your livestock? If not, why not?

52 53
6. Agroforestry Trees increase biodiversity,
reduce deforestation, and
enable climate change
adaptation.
Trees provides shelter
and act as windbreakers,
and have cultural, and
psychological value.

Trees absorb carbon dioxide

from the air and enables
climate change mitigation.

Introduction
Trees provide fodder Trees provide firewood,
This session introduces the idea of the intentional or deliberate planting of for the animals and timber, fruits, nuts, poles
increase livestock and sometimes have
trees in a crop or livestock farm. By the end of this chapter you will know productivity. medicinal properties.

the benefits of agroforestry including climate change mitigation, and some

of the common methods used.

Time required: 8 hours.

6.1 What is agroforestry?

Agroforestry is the deliberate growing of woody perennials (trees, shrubs)
as agricultural crops alongside other crops and/or livestock in the same
land. It improves productivity and mitigates the impacts of climate change
Trees improve soil fertility
(adaptation and mitigation). Existing trees can be protected and managed, and crop productivity.

or/and new ones planted.

The benefits of trees on the impacts of climate change cannot be Illustration: Agroforestry - How it works
overstated. Trees capture and absorb carbon dioxide - a significant factor in
the climate change equation - and either use it for photosynthesis or store it
in leaves, stems, branches and roots. Trees also release oxygen during
photosynthesis. Trees grow faster in tropical regions, absorbing more
EXERCISE
carbon dioxide than trees that grow in temperate regions. When trees are 1. What kind of trees do you have on your farm?
cut and forests destroyed, the carbon that is trapped is released into the 2. How do you think these benefit your farm?
atmosphere, facilitating raises in temperature. Planting trees and maintaining 3. How is the tree cover today in your area, compared to
forests is therefore essential for climate change mitigation. 30 years ago? Has any tree species disappeared?
Agroforestry has three major attributes: productivity, sustainability
and adoptability. In other words, agroforestry should maintain or increase
production (productivity), meet the needs of the present generation without
compromising those of future ones (sustainability) and be culturally
acceptable and environmentally friendly (adoptability).

Benefits of agroforestry:

CATEGORY SPECIFIC BENEFITS

Social Food and nutrition, shelter, medicine, cultural, psychological.

Economic Sales of timber, fruits, nuts, poles, medicine.

Environmental Soil fertility, crop and livestock productivity, firewood energy,

biodiversity, reduce deforestation, climate change adaptation
and mitigation, wind breakers, beauty, landscape.

54 55
6.2 Agroforestry tree species BENEFIT SPECIES OTHER ATTRIBUTES

BENEFIT SPECIES OTHER ATTRIBUTES Timber Albizia lebbeck Termite resistant, drought resistant
Markhamia lutea Termite resistant
Firewood Calliandra calothyrsus
Cederella odorata Drought resistant
Sesbania sesban
Land Acacia mearnsii Termite resistant, drought resistant
Cordia africana Termite resistant
rehabilitation Terminalia brownii Termite resistant, drought resistant
Gliricidia sepium Termite resistant, drought resistant
Terminalia superba Termite resistant, drought resistant
Soil erosion Calliandra calothyrsus
Poles Markhamia lutea Termite resistant
control Gliricidia sepium Termite resistant, drought resistant
Acacia mearnsii Termite resistant, drought resistant
Sesbania sesban
Grevillea Robusta
Morus alba
Medicine Azadirachta indica Termite resistant, drought resistant
Tephrosia vogelli
Melia azedarach Termite resistant
Soil fertility Sesbania sesban
Callistemon citrinus
improvement Calliandra calothyrsus
Spathodea nilotica
Cajanus cajan
Combretum molle Termite resistant, drought resistant
Gliricidia sepium Termite resistant, drought resistant
Terminalia brownii Termite resistant, drought resistant
Tephrosia vogelli
Moringa oleifera Drought resistant
Albizia chinensis Termite resistant
Wind break Markhamia lutea Termite resistant
Trema orientalis
Grevillea Robusta
Shade trees Ficus natalensis Termite resistant
Casuarina equisetifolia Competitive
in crop land Albizia chinnensis Termite resistant
Ornamentals Terminalia brownii Termite resistant, drought resistant
Polyscias fulva compound Callistemon citrinus
Cordia africana Termite resistant
Casuarina equisetifolia Competitive
Maesopsis eminii Termite resistant
Terminalia mantally
Trema orientalis
Spathodia nilotica
Croton macrostachyus
Bee forage Markhamia lutea Termite resistant
Fodder trees Calliandra calothyrsus
Callistemon citrinus
Albizia chinnensis
Calliandra calothyrsus
Morus alba
Albizia chinensis
Sesbania sesban
Cordia africana Termite resistant
Gliricidia sepium Termite resistant, drought resistant
Live fences Dovyalis caffra
Moringa oleifera Drought resistant
Calliandra calothyrsus
Timber Khaya anthotheca Termite resistant, competitive
Gliricidia sepium Termite resistant, drought resistant
Milicia excelsa
Table: Some of the agroforestry tree species in East Africa.
Podocarpus falcatus Termite resistant, competitive
Maesopsis eminii Termite resistant
Grevillea Robusta
Table: Some of the agroforestry tree species in East Africa.

56 57
6.3 Common agroforestry systems 6.3.1 Planting trees among crops - agrisilviculture
An agroforestry system is a distinct use of different agroforestry practices Planting trees among crops is known as agrisilviculture. Examples of
in different location and over a certain period of time. The most common practices are dispersed interplanting (see 6.2.3), trees with perennial crops
systems are discussed below. and alley cropping.

a. Alley cropping (hedgerows in cropland)

Agrisilvicultural
Alley cropping is the growing of annual crops or forage between rows
Crops of trees or shrubs to form hedgerows. This practice improves soil
+ characteristics and fertility. Alley cropping can be done in areas with flat to
Trees
gently rolling terrain.

Think
Silvopastoral
Examples of shrubs to be planted within crop land include Sesbania about
Livestock Sesban, Gliricidia Sepium or Calliandra species.
+
Trees
AGROFORESTRY SYSTEMS

The benefits of alley cropping include:

Agrisilvopastoral
Silkworms Controls soil erosion
Crops
+ + Trees shelter crops from wind damage
Livestock Trees
+
Trees sequester carbon dioxide
Trees Sericultural

Enfomosilvicultural

Napier grass
Insects Trees for example calliandra
+ Apiculture
Trees Crops

Bees
+ Calliandra
Trees
Aquasilvicultural
30 cm

Fish
+ 30 cm
Trees

Different practices can be used in

the agricultural systems:
Trees can be planted in
different ways. Four land use
agroforestry practices are:
Woodlot
Fruit orchard
Dispersed interplanting
Boundary planting
Illustration: Alley cropping
Alley cropping/hedgerow in
cropland b. Trees with perennial crops
Trees and perennial crops
Trees can be grown in combination with other perennial crops such
Wind trees
as coffee, sugarcane and tea. This system provides land use with strong
Contour tree
build-up soil, organic matter, multiple or intercropping, mulch and extended
Fodder banks
rotation. Because crops are permanent there is little re-planting. Hence
Home and tree garden
Shade tree systems there is minimal disturbance of soil and thereby, more carbon is
Improved fallows sequestered in the soil.

Illustration: Agroforestry - systems, land use and practices

58 59
 Trees planted along the contours

Tree

8 m if steep
Coffee

16 m if less steep

8m

3-4m
3-4m

Illustration: Contour trees

Illustration: Trees with perennial crops
c. Wind trees
Wind trees, also known as wind breaks or shelter, are planted to slow down
wind speed. The trees should be of different heights, and should be planted
alongside bushes and grasses. Wind trees should not have gaps as wind
can be channelled through the gaps creating a destructive tunnel of high
winds.
e. Home gardens
A home garden is a tree field with various trees (fruit, fodder, timber and
medicinal trees) and crops planted together. It is located either close to
the homestead or a nearby cropland to provide different plant and animal
products. The trees sequester carbon, provide shelter, provide products,
and improve soil fertility.

Note: Especially fruit trees, coffee plants and maize need to be sheltered
Homestead
from heavy wind. Wind that damage trees and crops tend to come from
specific direction – study your farm and consider the wind directions. Trees

The trees reduce

wind speed and
Fruit trees Crop fields
change wind
direction

Crops

Trees

Animal shelter

16 m
4m
Wind direction
Illustration: Home garden
16 m 4m

Illustration: Wind trees
d. Contour trees
Contour trees are planted on sloping land for the purpose of soil and water
conservation. The trees reduce runoff speed, increase infiltration, increase
vegetation cover, control soil erosion and largely sequester carbon into soil.
f. Shade trees
A shade tree system uses selected trees with good canopies to provide
shade for livestock, compound and delicate crops against sun scorches.
Mostly coffee, fruit trees and bananas require some trees for shade.
Example of tree species are Markamia lutea, Mango, Albicia, Acacia
xanthophloa.

60 61
g. Improved fallows
Think
Improved fallows is the targeted use of a fast-growing tree species to obtain The commonly used fodder bank plants and trees/shrubs include:
Calliandra spp, Sesbania sesban, Gliricidia sepium, Moringa oleifera, about
the benefits of a natural fallow. Nitrogen-fixing trees and shrubs are planted
with the main aim of improving nutrient input into soil, by fixing nitrogen and Leucaena leucocephala and Cajanus Cajan, and grasses such as
adding organic matter to the soil. The practice is common where land is napier grass and/or legume crops such as desmodium, lucern.
regularly fallowed especially in semi-arid areas. The trees are planted for
1-3 years, then harvested and the field is planted with high value crops.

6.3.2 Trees with pastures/livestock - silvopastures Calliandra hedge

Trees with pastures or livestock is a practice concerned mainly with the Different types of grasses,
management of trees, forage and livestock. It is also known as the for example napier grass

parkland system or silvopasture.

Silvopastures can be established where the land can support both trees Crop field
and forage growth at the same time. The trees can be evenly distributed
throughout the land to optimize space and light for both trees and forage, or
grouped into rows or clusters to open up space for pasture and concentrate
shade and root effects.
The animals within this system can be allowed to graze freely or zero-
grazed (cut-and-carry system). If managed in a sustainable way, grazing of
fallows can particularly enhance soil fertility regeneration.
Illustration: Fodder bank
Silvopasture provides relatively constant income from livestock and
livestock products, plus a variety of fruit, tree and timber products.
6.3.3 Trees with a mix of crops and livestock -
a. Fodder banks agrisilvopastoral
Fodder bank is a crop field with a variety of suitable and highly nutritious Trees with a mix of crops and livestock is called mixed farming or
grasses, leguminous crops, trees and shrubs planted in a systematic way agrisilvopastoral.
to feed livestock such as dairy cows throughout for high quality milk. It is The trees provide shade for crops and livestock, and absorb carbon
a fodder agroforestry system that involves establishing trees into hedges, dioxide produced by the crops and livestock. The trees also act as wind
blocks or strip cropping, napier grass planting, vines, grass and paddocking (for breaks, preventing crop damage.
zero grazing). Established trees provide feeds and manure, litter, humus, fix The livestock provide manure for both the trees and crops. The livestock
nitrogen into the soil, improve soil structure and fertility, and control erosion. can feed on some of the crops. The crops can provide compost and mulch.
Some trees can provide essential feeds and improve the diet of livestock,
which if well managed can increase livestock productivity e.g. milk
production, as a result of feeding on improved fodder, i.e. increased protein Animal shelter

and water intake through the plants as well as manage the agricultural GHG Compost for manure

emissions (especially methane) produced by livestock. The ability of some Trees give fodder
Feeding
legumes to fix atmospheric nitrogen makes them protein-rich feeds. Improved Crops, residues feed cows or
breeds are encouraged to reduce the number of livestock owned and used for compost or mulch

manage livestock with minimal expenditures and increased productivity.

The relatively deep roots of the woody perennials allow the trees to reach Fodder bank

soil nutrients and moisture not available to grasses and herbaceous plants.
This characteristic enables the grasses and plants to retain fresh foliage into
the dry season. Cows grazing

Fodder banks can be established through direct seeding or cuttings.

Illustration: Trees with a mix of crops and livestock

62 63
6.3.4 Trees and insects - apiculture and sericulture
Trees and insects together is also known as entomosilviculture. Two common
forms are apiculture and sericulture.

a. Bee-keeping (apiculture)
Apiculture is the rearing of bees for honey products, using trees for
shade and bee-forage. It can be a source of income from selling the honey
produced, and honey is also a source of nutrition.

The benefits of bee-keeping include:

Hive products such as medicine from propolis, wax, honey, royal jelly,
venom (poison from the bee to be used for organic pesticides).
Source of income.
Pollination, which boosts plant production.
Not very labour intensive.
Not very demanding enterprise.
Requires little capital.
Few materials/inputs needed.

Factors to consider in bee-keeping:

Permanent water supply.
Presence of trees for shade and forage (such as Gliricidia, Calliandra,
Markhamia lutea, Grevillea Robusta, mango).
Area free from noise, wind and pollution.

If you are interested in bee-keeping, you can buy or build a bee-hive.

CROSS SECTION OF HIVE BODY AND FRAME

Air space
/4" space
1

Illustration: How to build a langstroth bee-hive

18 1/4"
b. Silkworms (sericulture)
Reversible bottom board

Sericulture is the production of raw silk fiber by rearing the larvae of

CROSS SECTION OF SHALLOW SUPER
domesticated silkworms (Bombyx mori). The silk is used for making clothes.
5 3/8"
Silk production involves two processes:
17 5/8"
1. Caring for silkworms from the egg stage to the completion of the larvae
SIDE, END AND TOP ELEVATION OF FRAME
stage (when cocoon is completely formed).
1 3/8" 2. The growing and maintaining of mulberry trees. The silkworm feeds on
Wire
9 /8"
1
1 /8"
1 the leaves of this tree.

17 5/8"
Silk production provides alternative income for the farmer.
5
/8"
1 1/8"

Illustration: How to build a langstroth bee-hive - Part 1

64 65
 6.4 Common agroforestry land use
Normal egg

There are four major land use practices within agroforestry. In this context,

3 - 4 DAYS
Egg hatched

land use refers to how you choose to plant the trees and how they interact
Ant (newly hatched)
with the crops.
Pupa
1st instar
3 - 4 days
1st molt
Tree species
Fresh cocoon with
The following table summarises the main tree species in various major lands
7 - 8 DAYS

live pupa harvesting

2nd instar

LARVAL STAGE
2 - 3 days
2nd molt use agroforestry systems in East Africa.
Cocoon
3rd instar
3 - 4 days
Cocooning
3rd molt WOODLOTS FRUIT DISPERSED BOUNDARY
4th instar ORCHARD PLANTING PLANTING
3 - 4 days
4th molt Casuarina Mangifera indica Grevillea Robusta Markhamia lutea
5th instar
6 - 8 days
equisetifolia
Mature or ripening silkworm
5th molt
Albirzia lebbeck Citrus limon Albirzia coriara Casuarina equisetifolia

Illustration: Silk production Markhamia lutea Persea Americana Albirzia lebbeck Acacia xanthophloea
Cedrela odorata Artocarpus Acrocarpus Maesopsis emnii
heterophyllus fraxinifolius
6.3.5 Trees and water animals - aquasilviculture
Acacia nilotica Psiduim quajava Podocarpus Grevillea Robusta
Aquasilviculture is an agroforestry system that combines trees and water falcatus
animals. It involves planting and/or maintaining belts of trees and shrubs Prunus Africana
Acacia Syzygium cumnii Leucaena leucocephala/
in areas bordering lakes, streams, rivers and wetlands containing fish. For xanthophloea Calliandra calothyrsus
example, selected tree species are planted to interact with fish ponds. The Cordia Africana
Acacia Pasiflora edulis Senna siamea
trees provide leaves to feed the fish and manure for the pond to generate polyacantha
plants that fish can feed on.
Maesopsis emnii Eriobotrya japonica
Think
about Table: Tree species for different land uses
Example of trees to be planted: Calliandra, Sesbania sesban, Gliricidia sepium.
Factors to consider when selecting tree species for agroforestry:

The benefits of aquasilviculture include: CHARACTERISTICS BENEFITS
Alternative livelihood to fishing communities. Fish farmers can harvest fish Multi-purpose Provide products such as firewood, fodder, poles,
green leaf manure, medicine.
and mud crabs, and at the same time get fruits from trees.
Conservation of ecosystems at coastal areas and rivers, and related Growing Fast growing, increased production of biomass.
wildlife. Rooting system Deep-rooted so that they do not affect other crops.
Protection of water and river resources.
Competition Non-competitive for plant space, nutrients, air, light
and water.
Water Trees (Calliandra, Sesbania, Gliricidia) Re-growth Grows back after cutting.

Nutritious and tasty Fodder for livestock, non-poisonous, soft leaves.

Line with clay
Fish pond
Canopy Light can penetrate but still give shade.

Nitrogen Nitrogen-fixing, improve soil fertility.

Economic Produce saleable products (fruits, timber, firewood).

Environmental Do not overtake other species, indigenous, promote

biodiversity, adaptable, compatible with the landscape.

Illustration: Fish farming Table: Agroforestry trees and characteristics

66 67
6.4.1 Woodlots 6.4.4 Boundary planting
Woodlot refers to a cluster of trees grown together to produce timber, Boundary planting involves planting selected trees along field boundaries,
poles, or fuel wood (firewood and charcoal) and support other systems hedges, borders and roadsides. The trees can create micro-climate for
like bee-keeping, livestock and crop production. Woodlots are grown on crops, create windbreaks, stabilise the soil, and sequester significant
agricultural land. amounts of carbon.
Woodlots form high carbon pools (made of tree stems, roots, litter
and organic matter). It is advisable to plant a variety of indigenous tree
species for high carbon sequestration and to conserve biodiversity. As a
Homestead
complement, you can also plant exotic agroforestry trees if they are adaptive
to the local setting. Boundary trees

Hedge

Field
Road

Woodlot
8m

Road
4m
4m

Illustration: Boundary planting

Illustration: Woodlot
6.4.2 Fruit orchards
Fruit trees can be planted as orchards (cluster of fruit trees) or scattered in
the farm for home use or for selling. The leaves, seeds, fruits, nuts of fruit
trees provide food with high nutrition value, medicine and other products.
Choose trees that grows well in your area.
6.4.3 Dispersed inter-planting
In dispersed inter-planting, trees are grown in a systematic way in fields
alongside crops to provide food, fuel wood, building poles, fodder or gum.
The trees also provide nutrients and organic matter for the soil, and shade
for crops and livestock.
EXERCISE
1. Describe the agroforestry practices you are currently having
on your farm.
2. What benefits do you derive from your farm?
6.5 Nursery and seed management
A tree nursery is a place, on the farm or away from it, where tree seedlings
are bred and grown to a desired, usable size. The plants can be used on
your farm or sold to others, providing extra income for the family. Nurseries
offer ready access to new tree seedlings at a low cost. Seedlings grown
in a nursery, are more likely to survive, than seeds sown directly. This is
because the seedlings are already established.

6.5.1 Benefits of on-farm nurseries

Crop field
You can grow the desired tree species and number of seedlings.
15 m
Income generation opportunities from selling seedlings.
Cost efficient - cheap to establish and manage.
Availability of seedlings throughout the year.
Long term trees Possibility of using locally available materials for planting.
8m
Nurseries can be used as teaching material for schools and groups.

Illustration: Dispersed inter-planting

68 69
6.5.2 Location of tree nursery How to collect seeds:

The following factors determine the location of a nursery on a farm: 1. Find a good example of the tree that looks healthy, without diseases.
2. Pick seeds that are not rotten or damaged (neither the pods or the
Reliable water supply. seeds).
Accessibility and near the farm. 3. Process the seeds (see table)
Availability of good soils. 4. Pre-treat the seeds (see table)
Protection from strong wind, direct sunlight (shade) and livestock. 5. Now the seeds are ready for sowing.
Gentle slope for water drainage.
Area free for expansion.
TREE METHOD OF PRE- GERMINATION PLANTING
6.5.3 Soil preparation SEEDS PROCESSING TREATMENT PERIOD METHOD
SPECIES THE SEED METHOD
Nursery soil should be fertile and well-drained. It should also be collected,
Terminalia Drying under the Soak in boiled 7 - 20 days Direct sowing/
preferably, from some identified part of the farm such as under some trees mantally shade hot water nursery
or along the fence since it is here that most of the core soil nutrients are overnight
stored. Before digging topsoil for nursery use, clear the surface to remove
Terminalia Drying under the Remove wings 21 - 40 days Direct sowing/
all plants and litter. Dig using a hoe and then sieve the soil to remove
superba shade and soak seeds nursery
undesirable materials such as stones and sticks. Mix two portions of the overnight in
sieved soil with one portion of sand and one portion of manure. This is the boiled hot water
soil to use for the next step, potting.
Toona ciliata Drying in the sun Not necessary 5 - 7 days Nursery and
put in pots
6.5.4 Potting 3 - 6 months
Potting is the process of putting soils into the containers or bags for the Acacia Drying in the sun Soak in boiled 5 - 7 days Direct sowing/
purpose of raising and protecting seedlings to maturity. Locally available nilotica and crushing the hot water nursery
materials e.g. milk packets, used tins, calabashes and clay can also be pods overnight
used as containers. You can also buy ready-made potting material such as Drying in the sun Soak in boiled 5 - 7 days Direct sowing/
Acacia
special black polythene bags. polyacantha and crushing the hot water nursery
pods overnight
Instructions:
Acrocarpus Drying in the sun Soak in boiled 7 - 20 days Direct sowing/
1. Take the soil mixture and moisten it by sprinkling some water on it. flaxinifolius and crushing the hot water nursery
Ensure that the soil is neither too dry nor too wet. pods overnight
2. Put the moist soil into the containers in such a way that lower part (¾) Albizia Drying in the sun Soak in boiled 8 - 30 days Direct sowing/
of the container is slightly pressed while the soil in the upper quarter chinensis and crushing the hot water nursery
is loose. Remember, heavy compaction at the top makes seed sowing pods overnight
difficult and inhibits root penetration.
Albizia Drying in the sun Soak in cold 8 - 30 days Direct sowing/
3. Ensure the containers are open at both ends or have holes at the coriaria and crushing the water overnight nursery
bottom to allow movement of water and healthy root development. pods

Drying in the sun Not necessary 7 - 15 days Direct sowing

6.5.5 Sources of tree seeds Albizia
gummifera and crushing the
Seeds can be collected from healthy trees, from other farmers or acquired pods
from relevant institutions such as the Kenya Forestry Research Institute Albizia Drying in the sun Soak in boiled Direct sowing/
5 – 7 days
(KEFRI), Country Forest Services (Departments), non-governmental lebbeck and crushing the hot water nursery
organisations, community-based organisations, and authorised seed vendors. pods overnight

Alnus Drying in the sun Plant immediately 6-15 days Nursery

acuminata and crushing the after harvest
pods

Table: From seed to tree - 1

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 TREE METHOD OF PRE- GERMINATION PLANTING TREE METHOD OF PRE- GERMINATION PLANTING
SEEDS PROCESSING TREATMENT PERIOD METHOD SEEDS PROCESSING TREATMENT PERIOD METHOD
SPECIES THE SEED METHOD SPECIES THE SEED METHOD
Azadirachta Drying in the sun Soak in cold 8 - 28 days Direct sowing/ Grevillea Drying in the sun Soak in boiled 8 - 30 days Nursery
indica and crushing the water for 48 hrs nursery Robusta and crushing the hot water for
pods pods 24 hrs

Cajanus Drying in the sun Not necessary 5 – 7 days Direct sowing Grilicidia Drying in the sun Soak in boiled 7 -10 days Direct sowing.
Cajan and crushing the sepium and crushing the hot water (If you do not
pods pods overnight plant by seed,
you can plant
Calliandra Drying in the sun Soak in boiled hot 4 - 10 days Direct sowing a cutting with
callothyrsus and crushing the water for 12 hrs bud directly).
pods
Hibiscus Drying in the sun Not necessary 4 - 7 days Direct sowing
Callistemon Drying in the sun Not necessary 20 - 28 days Nursery sabdariffa and crushing the
citrinus and crushing the pods
pods
Khaya Drying in the sun Not necessary 7 - 30 days Direct sowing/
Carica Cut the fruit and Soak in cold 7 days Direct sowing/ anthotheca nursery
papaya expose the seeds water for 12 hrs nursery
Leucaena Drying in the sun Soak in boiled Direct sowing
Casuarina Cones are Not necessary 10 - 15 days Nursery diversifolia and crushing the hot water for
equisetifolia sundried and pods 4 hrs
turned regularly to
release seeds Leucaena Drying in the sun Soak in boiled 4 - 15 days Direct sowing
leucocephala and crushing the hot water
Cedrela Drying in the sun Not necessary 5 - 7 days Direct sowing/ pods
odorata and crushing the nursery
pods Maesopsis Depulping Soak in cold 24 - 90 days Direct sowing/
eminii (removing flesh) water for 12-72 nursery
Chlorophora Drying under Not necessary 21 - 60 days Nursery hours
excelsa shade
Markhamia Mature capsules Not necessary 4 - 20days Direct sowing
Citrus Softening in cold Not necessary 10 - 15 days Potting lutea are dried in the
reticulata water for 12 sun to extract the
hours and then seeds
drying in the sun
Moringa Capsules are Not necessary 9 - 30 days Direct sowing
Citrus Seeds must not Soak in boiled 3 weeks Direct sowing oleifera dried in the sun
sinensis be more than 3-4 hot water and seeds ex-
weeks old overnight tracted manually

Citrus Softening in cold Not necessary 10 - 15 days Nursery and Persea Using fresh seeds Disinfection 4 - 6 weeks Direct sowing,
sinensis water for 12 put in pots americana with hot water grafting,
hours and then 3 - 6 months nursery
drying in the sun
Podocarpus Depulping Crack seeds 23 - 100 days Direct sowing/
Cordia Drying in the sun Soak in cold 30 - 60 days Direct sowing/ usambarensis (removing flesh) nursery
africana water for 12-24 nursery
hours Prunus Depulping Soak in cold 10 - 30 days Direct sowing/
africana (removing flesh) water overnight nursery
Croton Crush the pods Not necessary 6 - 60 days Direct sowing
megalocarpus and sort them Psidium Softening in Not necessary 5 - 7 days Direct sowing/
guajava water and drying nursery
Cyphomandra Wash and dry in Soak in boiled 4 - 6 days Nursery in the sun
betacea the shade hot water
Table: From tree to seed - 3
overnight

Table: From tree to seed - 2

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 a. Sunken beds
TREE METHOD OF PRE- GERMINATION PLANTING
SEEDS PROCESSING TREATMENT PERIOD METHOD A sunken bed is a basin like excavation, 1 m wide and 5 cm deep, in which
SPECIES THE SEED METHOD seeds are planted. Such a structure holds the seedlings together, and help
Senna Drying in the sun Soak in cold 8 - 30 days Nursery to conserve moisture. Sunken beds are commonly used in dry areas.
siamea and crushing the water overnight
pods
Plant one or more
seeds in hole
Sesbania Drying in the sun Soak in cold 7 days Direct sowing
sesban and crushing the water overnight The length can be 1 m or more
pods
1 m wide
Drying in the sun Soak in cold 8 - 10 days Direct sowing 5 cm
Tephrosia
vogelii and crushing the water overnight 10 cm

pods

Tephrosia Drying in the sun Not necessary 4 - 4 days Direct sowing

vogelii and crushing the
pods
Illustration: Sunken beds
Terminalia Drying under the Remove wings 10 - 90 days Direct sowing/
brownii shade and soak seeds nursery
in cold water b. Raised beds
overnight
A raised bed is a structure of soil in which the soil is held in place using
Terminalia Sorting and Soak in boiled 20 - 30 days Direct sowing/ materials like banana stems. The width of a raised bed is 1m, the height 10
catapa drying hot water nursery cm. A raised bed is most preferable in high rainfall areas. The bed enables
overnight
you to manage the roots so that they don’t grow too deep.
Table: From tree to seed - 4

The length can be 1 m or more

6.5.6 Seed sowing 1m

10 cm
The time for sowing a specific type of seed depends on the time it takes 10 cm
to attain plantable size, this takes normally 1-3 months depending on tree
species. It is important that seeds are sown in time to attain plantable sizes
20-30 cm by the onset of the rainy season.
Seed can either be sown directly into potting material or in transplant
beds (for example in a sunken bed). Big seeds such as mango, avocado,
neem, Syzgium, Sesbania sesban and kei apple can be sown directly into Sow seeds on the lines
You can slide a panga under the bed
to remove roots that are too deep
the field. They do not have to be potted first and bred in the nursery. Fine
and light seeds such as Casuarina, Grevillea Robusta, Markhamia lutea,
Illustration: Raised beds
Prunus africana are sown in transplant beds and later pricked out into
potting containers after germination. It is important that fine seeds are mixed
with sand and uniformly spread on the seed bed to avoid overcrowding as 6.5.8 Pricking out
overcrowding leads to diseases. Do not sow the seed too deep in the soil Pricking out is the process of transferring young and tender seedlings from
as this is likely to affect seed germination. seedbeds into potting containers following this sequence of activities:

6.5.7 Seed germination bed preparation
A seed germination bed is a place where seed are sown for purposes of
germination. There are several types of beds: sunken beds, raised beds,
and other containers.
1. Water the seedbed properly before pricking out.
2. Take an empty basin and fill with water to ¾ level.
3. Hold the leaves of the seedlings and insert a sharp tool (pencil or small
stick) underneath the root system to loosen the soil.
4. Pull out the seedlings gently and immediately put them in to the basin
with water.
5. Water the pots before transplanting the seedlings.

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6. Make a hole at the center of the pot using sharp tool (pencil or small stick).
7. If the roots are too long clip off the tip, insert the root system gently
in the hole while holding the seedlings by the leaves. Do not hold the
stem of the seedling because they are tender and feeble – this may
injure the seedlings.
8. Hold the sharp tool (pencil or small stick) in the tilling position and
insert it in the soil about one centimeter away from the seedling to the
same depth as the hole.
9. Push the soil towards the seedling to hold it tightly. This ensures that
all the air pockets around the roots are closed; using your fingers cover
the hole you made; water the pots properly and shade the seedlings.
6.5.9 Shading and watering
Both during germination period and raising the seedling, shading is
necessary. Use locally available materials such as grass, mats, or banana
fibres for shade construction.
Water seeds and seedlings twice a day, early in the morning and evening,
when the sun is not hot. Watering may be done once or skipped altogether
during the rainy season. Take care not to under-water or over- water the
plants. Use adequate amount of water, i.e. 20 litres for 1,000 seedlings. Use
a watering can which doesn’t damage the seedlings. Avoid the direct use of
hosepipes while watering the seedlings as this may wash away the soil.
6.5.10 Weeding
Weeds are a threat to healthy seedlings development as they compete with
seedlings for nutrients, water and light. Weeds also cause diseases to the
seedlings. Control weeds by gentle pulling out of the unwanted growth
(rouging) whenever the weeds are observed sprouting from the pots. You can
also use your fingers to weed by gently disturbing the soil, or a small stick.
6.5.11 Root pruning
Root pruning is the cutting of the roots to control the root system
development beyond the container. It is done when the roots become longer
than the depth of the pots. Roots that are not pruned will penetrate into the
ground and develop a root system.
Water the seedlings properly before root pruning. Use a sharp knife or
wire to cut the long roots underneath the container. You can also uplift the
pots (wrenching) to cut overgrown roots. Water the seedlings well after
root pruning to help the plant withstand moisture stress. Root pruning
should be done regularly preferably every 2 - 3 weeks.
6.5.12 Hardening off
Hardening off is the gradual preparation of seedlings for field conditions.
Hardening-off should be done 2 - 3 weeks before transplanting. It involves
the reduction in watering intensity, frequency and exposure to more
sunshine. Good preparation for transplanting results in good field survival.
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6.5.13 How to plant a tree
For most trees, the right time to plant is during the long rainy season. Get a
note book to record every detail of the tree and make sure you have all the
materials and requirements available before planting.
1. Choose a suitable species for the area. Select healthy seedlings.
2. Choose the agroforestry system/practice you want have on your
farm, for example woodlot, dispersed interplanting, boundary etc.
Demarcate the areas with right measurements and mark with sticks
where to plant the trees.
3. Prepare the holes:
For soft soils, dig a round hole: 20 cm diameter wide and 30 cm deep.
For hard soils, dig a rectangular hole, to let roots penetrate through
the corners: 50 cm width, 50 cm deep.
Note: If you plant a seed (spot planting), dig a small rectangular
hole (30 deep and 20 cm wide). If you plant a cutting with a bud
(for example for hedges), dig 30 cm deep. Follow the instructions
below regarding soil preparations.
Separate top soils (10 cm depth) from sub soils.
Leave the holes to stay for 7 days – 3 months depending on tree
species.
4. Prepare the soil and manure:
Mix top soil and subsoil (ratio 2:1), make a fine mix by crushing crumbs.
Mix the soil mixture with well composted manure or compost
(ratio 1:2).
Fill the hole completely with the mixture.
Leave the filled hole 1 – 3 days.
5. Plant the seedling:
Time the rains onset well, plant 1 - 7 days before raining.
Water the hole with slow flow of water (20 l) in the morning or
evening.
Open a hole depending on the size of the seedling and species.
If your seedling is in a black polyethylene bag, cut of the bottom if
closed. Be careful not destroying the roots.
Place the seedling gently in the hole, half down the stem.
Note: Plant seeds 5-10 cm deep. Plant cuttings 30 cm apart and
10 cm deep.
Return the soil to cover the hole and flatten.
Water the seedling until it is saturated.
6. Managing the growing planted tree:
Spread compost/manure around the plant.
Mulch with dried residues.
Shade the plant against the sun.
Weed the plant regularly.
Prune if necessary.
Water twice a day if rain is not falling.
Spread ash around to scare away ants and termites.
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 SOIL MIXTURE
• Mix top soil and subsoil (ratio 2:1), make
7. Tillage and residue management
a fine mix by crushing crumbs.
• Mix the soil mixture with well composted
manure or compost (ratio 1:2).
• Fill the hole completely with the mixture.
• Leave the filled hole 1 – 3 days.

PLANTING SEEDLINGS
Introduction
For hard soil, dig a rectangular hole. Fill the hole with For soft soil, dig a round hole. Fill the hole with This chapter demonstrates how the integration of residue management and
soil mixture as soil mixture as
described. described. reduced tillage can sustainably manage agricultural lands to increase
productivity, resilience to effects of climate change and increase soil organic
matter. As a farmer you have significant amount of crop residues and litter
50 cm 30 cm
from trees that you can use to mulch the farm. By the end of this chapter
50 cm
you will understand different tillage operations as well as the importance of
20 cm
residues in supporting tillage.

PLANTING SEEDS Time required: 4 hours

Fill the hole with soil mixture as described.

7.1 Conservation agriculture

5 - 10 cm Conservation agriculture is the way in which crops can be grown in a
30 cm
sustainable way while conserving the environment. Conservation agriculture
20 cm
is based on three core principles:
1. Permanent soil cover with mulch or crops residues (residue
management), to protect the soil.
PLANTING CUTTINGS WITH BUD FOR EXAMPLE FOR HEDGES
2. Minimal soil disturbance during tillage.
Fill the hole with soil mixture as described.
3. Crop rotation.

Plant cuttings 10 cm deep

Think
1 m wide CROP RESIDUE MANAGEMENT AND CORRECT about
TILLAGE CAN:
30 cm 30 cm
deep
• Increase crop productivity.
1 m or more long • Reduce weeds.
• Reduce cost of production.
• Improve soil conditions such as structure and nutrients.
Illustration: How to plant a tree: seedlings, seeds and cuttings with buds.
• Enhance soil moisture retention and infiltration.
• Reduce soil disturbance and hence reduce soil erosion.
• Increase climate resilience.
EXERCISE • Increase soil organic matter (carbon sequestration).
1. Have you ever had a nursery on your farm? If so, where on
the farm did you place it? Why did you establish it? Pull out
the map of your farm and draw where you would like to put 7.2 Residue management
the tree nursery.
Residue management refers to the sound handling and utilisation of plant and
2. What are some of the benefits that you have had since you
crop residues that combines mulching, composting, integrative manure and
started your nursery?
livestock management. Plant residues are a major source of carbon in soil.
The residue should be distributed uniformly over the soil surface. The residues
can be used as trash lines or mulch (see also chapter 3 and 4). But residues
can also be used for feeding livestock. Manure from the livestock can then be
collected and used on the farm.

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